
Gladiators: The Colosseum
Dan Snow's History Hit
The Dual Lives of Roman Slaves and Gladiators
This chapter explores the complexities of slavery in Roman society, detailing the various origins and living conditions of slaves, including the potential for manumission. It also highlights the brutal realities faced by gladiators, who, despite being celebrated as heroes, were still regarded as property within the brutal entertainment culture of ancient Rome. The narrative combines historical insight with personal stories of these individuals, illustrating their significant yet harrowing roles in constructing both society and monumental structures like the Colosseum.
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